Conceptual understanding in chemistry requires students to connect quantitative calculations, chemical processes at the microscopic level (e.g., the level of atoms and molecules), and outcomes at the macroscopic level (e.g., final concentrations, color, temperature). Flexible, multimedia learning environments, such as the ChemCollective Virtual Lab, help students connect procedural knowledge of mathematical formalisms with authentic chemistry learning by allowing them to design and carry out experiments.

In the ChemVLab+ project, we extend the utility of the virtual lab by creating embedded assessment modules that provide students with opportunities to apply chemistry knowledge to meaningful contexts and to receive immediate, individualized tutoring.

PowderAde: Using Sports Drinks to Explore Concentration and Dilution

The Factory: Using a City Water System to Explore Dilution

Gravimetric Analysis

Bioremediation of Oil Spills

The research reported here was supported by the Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education, through Grant R305A100069 to WestEd. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not represent views of the Institute or the U.S. Department of Education.